Ichijodani Castle Ruins

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FukuiFukui City

Ichijodani Castle Ruins

One of Japan's largest Special Historic Sites, where an entire castle town built by the Warring States daimyo Asakura clan remains. Restored streets and elegant gardens spread out, and it was chosen as one of Japan's Top 100 Castles.

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About this spot

The "Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins" in Fukui Prefecture are the remains of a huge castle town where the Warring States daimyo Asakura clan prospered for five generations over 103 years as the center of Echizen. Because the town, razed to ashes after its defeat by Oda Nobunaga, was excavated in almost complete form after 400 years, it is also called the "Pompeii of Japan," and it holds triple designation as a Special Historic Site, Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Important Cultural Property. The biggest highlight is the "Restored Streetscape," faithfully recreated based on excavations. Lined with samurai residences and merchants' houses, it lets you experience the lives of people at that time realistically. The famous gardens scattered within the ruins, such as the "Suwa Yakata Ato Garden," harmonize with the nature of each season, and are breathtakingly beautiful during the autumn foliage and snowscape seasons in particular. For history fans, a hike to "Ichijodani Castle," built on the mountain behind, is also recommended. Climb to the summit while touring the remains, and you can see the whole of Ichijodani at a glance. Whether you quietly immerse yourself in historical romance alone or enjoy a time-slip to the Warring States period with family and friends, this is a classic spot not to be missed in Fukui sightseeing.

Last updated March 29, 2026

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